Necrotizing fasciitis complicating female genital mutilation: case report.

Necrotizing fasciitis is a deep-seated infection of the subcutaneous tissue that results in the progressive destruction of fascia and fat; it easily spreads across the fascial plane within the subcutaneous tissue [1]. It begins locally at the site of the trauma, which may be severe, minor or even non-apparent. The affected skin becomes very painful without any grossly visible change. With progression of the disease, tissues become swollen, often within hours. Skin colour may progress to violet and blisters may form, with subsequent necrosis of subcutaneous tissues. Necrotizing fasciitis is caused by many types of bacteria such as group A streptococcus, Vibrio vulnificus, Clostridium perfringens, Bacteroides fragilis, commonly known as “flesh-eating bacteria”; Group A streptococcus is the most common cause [2]. The disease has also been referred to as haemolytic streptococcal gangrene, Meleney ulcer, acute dermal gangrene, hospital gangrene, suppurative fasciitis, and synergistic necrotizing cellulitis. Fournier gangrene is a form of necrotizing fasciitis that is localized to the scrotum and perineal area. Patients with necrotizing fasciitis typically have a high fever and appear very ill. Very severe cases progress within hours and the mortality rate is as high as 40% [3,4]. Here we report a rare case of necrotizing fasciitis complicating female genital mutilation (FGM). Case report